Dunkin' adds espresso to try to lure in coffee drinkers

Perhaps in relation to dropping the "Donuts" from its name last month, Dunkin' is doubling down on coffee options with its latest relaunch of handcrafted espresso.

The drink will be a new espresso recipe, be made from "state-of-the-art espresso equipment" and be served in new espresso cups. Hot and cold versions will be offered, as will lattes and cappuccinos.

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Dunkin' says it will install the new equipment, which it claims will allow it to create a drink with a "stronger and more robust flavor" in all of its participating U.S. restaurants. The company hopes to have the drink available in time for the holiday season.

“Espresso is one of the fastest growing coffee categories, particularly among younger consumers," says Tony Weisman, the company's chief marketing officer of its U.S. business. "With our coffee credentials we believe we have a tremendous opportunity to improve our awareness and credibility among espresso drinkers."

The latest caffeinated beverage follows Dunkin's introduction of cold brew coffee earlier this year. Dunkin' also added donut fries, made with croissant-style doughnut dough and tossed in cinnamon sugar, to its menu in June as it looks to expand its offerings beyond traditional coffee and donuts.

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